Child custody is often a difficult issue for parents in Wisconsin who decide to divorce. Whether the separation is amicable or more contentious, it can be emotionally challenging to go from sharing a home with children full-time to splitting their time with a former partner or spouse. Of course, the breakup often comes with difficult emotions, but that can be exacerbated by the stress of sharing custody, even when both parents are on board for a positive co-parenting relationship.
Shared custody is the norm
While child custody arrangements can vary from case to case, most family court judges prefer to give both parents as close to equal custody as possible. Depending on each parent’s job responsibilities or housing requirements, shared physical custody may not always be fully possible, but shared legal custody remains the norm. Even if the children live primarily with one parent, both parents have the right to a voice in the important matters in the child’s life, such as education and medical treatment.
Pros and cons of co-parenting
Saying goodbye to the children, even a few days a week, can be challenging, especially when the divorce is fresh. Parents may also worry about missing milestones or losing a close connection with their children, especially when new partners come into the picture. However, there are also positives of shared custody, such as kids getting focused attention from each parent and parents having some time to focus on personal needs, hobbies, friends and interests.
As the years pass, co-parenting can become easier with time and as new family norms develop. Sharing custody can become routine, and, as long as both parents remain focused on the needs of the child, even positive. When parents start the process with a sensible custody agreement and a parenting plan, they can lay a strong foundation for future development.
